DNA, Genes and Chromosomes: How Together They Shape Us

Why do we have our parents’ eyes, smiles, or other features? DNA, genes, and chromosomes help explain how traits are passed from parents to children.

Why Do You Look Like Your Parents? The Science of Genetics

Have people ever told you:
“You have your mother’s eyes.” or “You smile like your father.” or “You look just like your grandfather.”

But why does this happen? The answer is partly in your DNA. Genetics is the study of how traits are passed from parents to children.

The Main Parts of Genetics

Genetics mainly involves three things:

  • DNA
  • Genes
  • Chromosomes

They work together to carry the instructions that help your body grow and function.

DNA

DNA is like an instruction manual for your body. It contains the information your cells need to grow, develop and function. Almost every cell in your body contains DNA.

Genes

Genes are small sections of DNA. They carry instructions that influence traits such as eye colour, hair type, skin tone and height. You inherit genes from both your parents, which is why you may have your mother’s eyes, your father’s smile, or a mix of features from both.

Chromosomes

Chromosomes are structures that carry and organise DNA. Humans normally have 23 pairs of chromosomes. One chromosome in each pair comes from the mother and the other from the father.

How Does Genetics Work?

When a baby is formed, genetic information from both parents comes together. This creates a unique combination of genes. That is why brothers and sisters can look different even though they have the same parents.

Some traits can also appear to run through generations, which is why you may sometimes share a feature with a grandparent.

What Can Go Wrong?

Changes in DNA or chromosomes can sometimes cause genetic conditions. Some conditions are inherited from parents, while others can happen because of new genetic changes. Conditions such as Down syndrome, haemophilia and some other genetic disorders can have a genetic cause.

Other health conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, can involve both genes and lifestyle or environmental factors.

How Can You Protect Your Health?

You cannot change the DNA you inherit, but healthy habits can support your overall health.

  • Eat healthy food
  • Exercise regularly
  • Get enough sleep
  • Avoid smoking and harmful substances
  • Reduce exposure to harmful chemicals
  • Know your family health history

Recap

Genetics explains how traits are passed from parents to children.

DNA carries genetic information, genes contain specific instructions, and chromosomes organise and carry DNA. Together, they help shape how we look, grow and function - making each of us unique.

 

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